More and more people are foregoing back surgery to give spinal decompression a try. Back decompression is a gentle and non-invasive alternative to more aggressive treatments used to treat chronic pain. It works by applying gentle pressure to your back in an effort to expand space between compressed discs in your spine. When performed successfully, spinal decompression can provide effective relief for herniated discs, sciatica, pinched nerves, and even degenerative disc disorders.
Did You Know?
Spinal decompression treatments take less than one hour to complete. Many patients find the time relaxing — especially when additional supplemental therapies like electrical stimulation or hot/cold therapy are used prior to or following treatment. If you decide spinal decompression is right for you, expect to visit your chiropractor as much as four times a week to reap maximum benefits.
Am I a Candidate for Spinal Decompression?
Back decompression is not for everyone, and you may not be a candidate for treatment if you have metal rods in your back or are prone to fractures. However, it is a much more conservative treatment option than surgery. If you are considering back surgery, contact your chiropractor first to find out if you could benefit from spinal decompression therapy.
| Stage | What happens |
|---|---|
| Before | You're comfortably secured on a specialized table |
| During | Gentle, controlled traction eases pressure off the discs and nerves |
| After | Sessions are painless; a course is usually spread over several weeks |
What Should I Expect During Treatment?
During your back decompression treatment, you will lie flat on your back while a decompression machine gently tugs at your back. The effect is similar to the feeling you get in your back when you hang upside down. The tugging encourages your vertebrae to separate, relieving pressure on discs and nerves.
Do I Need to Follow Any Special Instructions?
Back decompression typically requires multiple visits to achieve noticeable results. To maximize your chances of success, abide by the treatment schedule prescribed by your chiropractor.